Calgary,
07
December
2020
|
16:55
America/Denver

Level 2 Peace Officers granted authority to enforce measures under the Public Health Act

The Province of Alberta has granted The City of Calgary Level 2 Community Peace Officers enforcement capabilities under the orders issued by the Chief Medical Officer of Health (CMOH). The increased authority allows Calgary’s Level 2 Peace Officers to conduct local enforcement of the Public Health Act, during these challenging times.

The enhanced enforcement capabilities are effective immediately.

 “Calgary Community Standards applauds the Province’s decision to expand the authority of Level 2 Community Peace Officers in Calgary.” says Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief Bylaw Officer, Calgary Community Standards. “This change means there are now more than 100 Peace Officers working alongside Calgary Police Service to support The City’s pandemic response in situations where individuals are in blatant violation of the Public Health Act and bylaws.”

Community Peace Officers and the Calgary Police Service (CPS) are focusing on enforcement where Calgarians are clearly disregarding compliance and putting the health and safety of others around them in jeopardy.

The added enforcement authority allows Community Peace Officers, along with CPS, to ensure:

  • that Calgarians are wearing a face covering where required in indoor spaces
  • outdoor gatherings are limited to less than 10 people
  • that businesses are limited to 25 per cent capacity, closed at designated hours, or are only accepting services by appointment as required by the CMOH Orders.

Individuals found to be in violation of the Public Health Orders are subject to a $1,200 fine. Additionally, they can be prosecuted and face a fine of up to $100,000 for a first offense.

Individuals found to be in violation of The City’s Temporary Face Coverings Bylaw are subject to a $50 fine. Failure of businesses to display face coverings signage can result in a penalty of $200.

Should planned rallies or demonstrations continue in violation of the Public Health Orders, Calgary Police Service and Community Peace Officers will respond by investigating and issuing tickets when it is safe to do so.

All orders of government and citizens continue to have a role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Calgary encourages all citizens to follow the Public Health Orders and bylaws to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the burden on our health care system.

Calgarians or business can submit questions, concerns or report complaints to Alberta Health Services online or by calling 1-833-415-9179, to The City by contacting 311 or CPS non-emergency 403-266-1234 where violations are suspected.

More information is available on Calgary.ca/covid19.

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